Wayanad Twin Tunnel Gets Green Light: A New Era for Connectivity

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has granted environmental clearance (EC) for the ₹2,134 crore Wayanad twin tunnel road project—also known as the Anakkampoyil–Kalladi–Meppadi corridor—following a recommendation by the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) for infrastructure and CRZ projects. The approval comes with over 60 strict environmental conditions aimed at safeguarding the ecologically sensitive region.

Tiruvambadi MLA Linto Joseph (CPM) confirmed that construction can begin as soon as the contract is formally signed. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is expected to inaugurate the project next month. The tunnel will be built under a tripartite agreement involving the Kerala Public Works Department (PWD), Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB), and Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd.

The construction contract has been awarded to a joint venture between Dilip Buildcon (Bhopal) and Royal Infrastructure (Kolkata), following the completion of the tendering process.

The environmental clearance underscores the potential geological and ecological risks of tunnel construction in the Western Ghats, particularly from vibration-intensive excavation methods like blasting. To address these risks, the project must implement a comprehensive vibration monitoring plan prior to commencement. This includes mapping high-impact zones and regulating blasting activity in accordance with guidelines issued by the CSIR–Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CIMFR).

Once completed, the twin tunnel project is expected to significantly reduce travel time and improve year-round connectivity between Kozhikode and Wayanad, offering a vital alternative to the landslide-prone Thamarassery Ghat Road.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.